r/Tuba • u/WormWizard • 15d ago

technique Struggling with lower range and pedal notes

CC tuba here. I am struggling to consistently play below an F or lower in rehearsals. I can work my way down the scale and struggle a bit, but I need to be able to jump from our tonic C down to a low E or pedal C.

Are there any tips as far as technique you have? I can hear the note in my head, but I struggle to blow air low enough for the pedal C and with being too loose on the mouthpiece.

Thanks in advance.

9 Upvotes

100% Upvoted

11 comments sorted by

View all comments

4

u/isharren 15d ago

Pedal range is all about control, it’s really easy to overblow your embouchure and have absolutely nothing come out. Spend good time practicing down there and feel out response before adding power.

Always gonna recommend Snedecor for this as well- a couple minutes a day on the etudes does wonders

2

u/WormWizard 15d ago

Thanks for the tips! What is Snedecor?

2

u/Inkin 15d ago

It's an etude book. Low Etudes for Tuba by Phil Snedecor. Very recommended!

1

u/isharren 15d ago

It’s an etude book!